If you work at a computer for more than two hours each day, and find you have headaches, neck and shoulder pain, dry eyes, and blurred vision, you could have computer vision syndrome (CVS).
No one likes to look in the mirror after a tough day at the office and see bloodshot eyes starting back at them. CVS could be caused by sitting too close to a computer screen, poor lighting, poor seating posture, and uncorrected vision problems. Most people who work at a computer find symptoms gradually decrease over time once they stop their computer work for the day. But excessive stress can exacerbate other eye health issues and cause excessive dry eye.
To prevent developing symptoms, or to decrease further damage done to eyes from strain, it is important to follow good ergonomic practices for your desk setup. Make sure the computer screen top is below your eye level by about 15 to 20 degrees, and have any reference materials you need between the keyboard and the computer screen level, so you don’t need to move your head to view documents. Other tips include improving lighting, using anti-glare screens, and seating position and height.
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Resource:
Women’s Health: The Truth Behind Computer Vision
American Optometric Association: Computer Vision Syndrome is a Stroke?
Christine Jeffries is a writer/editor for work and at heart, and lives in a home of testosterone with her husband and two sons. Christine is interested in women’s health and promoting strong women.